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The Keys to Discipline

2/2/2017

6 Comments

 
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For almost a decade, I lived in a town of less than 10,000 people.  At first, I was a little leary of living in a small town, but as the years passed by, I grew to love it and the people that lived there.  When we moved to that town, our only son was a year old.  By the time our first born went to kindergarten we had another son who was about three.  As they were growing up, my workout routine had been to go to the gym in the morning while my husband was getting ready for work.  But now, with carpool to school, I knew this time would no longer be feasible.  
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I came up with a plan.  I would get up at 5:15 am and go for a run.  The only problem with this plan was that I did not want to go alone.  I thought and thought.  I prayed and asked God to give me a partner.  After asking several friends, I finally found someone, who I barely knew, that had the same schedule.  We agreed to meet every morning Monday through Friday at 5:15 am at our local high school to get a run in each day.  We did this rain or snow, sunshine or clouds…we ran.  You know why?  She knew that I was waiting on her and I knew that she was depending on me.  


Accountability at it’s finest, right?  That accountability, over the course of about seven years, led us to run 5 half marathons, countless 5Ks, and a 15Ks…and it gave me one of the greatest friends I have ever had.  It all started with two people depending on each other…holding each other accountable.  


Accountability really is the key to discipline.  Want more accountability in your life?  Here are a few things to keep in mind:

First: Give the goal that you are trying to achieve to God.  Honestly ask Him if this is something you should pursue. I love the verse in Psalms 90:17 that says,
Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; And confirm for us the work of our hands; Yes, confirm the work of our hands. (NAS)
God confirming the work of our hands really is the first step.  Is this something worthwhile?  Is this something that is pleasing to Him?  Are your motives pure?  Ask these important questions. 


Second:  Look for someone who is wanting to accomplish the same/similar goal.  Pray about it.  God will put someone in your path.  

Third:
  Hold them accountable.  Hold up your end of the deal.  Ask hard questions.  Be honest when you are asked hard questions.  Just do it. 

Accountability doesn’t have to take place just while you are together.  Start a FB group.  Start a text string.  Meet for coffee.  Start an email string.  Just whatever works for you.  Whatever you decide begin the process today.  Your future self will thank you!  And who knows, you might just meet a running partner that turns out to be one of the best friends you’ve ever had. 

About Jennifer

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Jennifer and her family live in the South. She and her husband, Fred, have three boys ages 13, 10, and 7, and one unruly dog named Dash. Chaos2Peace is a blog designed to bring peace in the midst chaos by providing organizational tips, menu planning, simple recipes, and a whole lot of laughter. Join us on the blog today as we do life together, one step at a time.

If you'd like to read more from this contributor, type her name in the search box on the top right.

Sharing this over at these awesome blogs.
6 Comments
Maree Dee link
2/10/2017 03:05:15 pm

Thank you for your post and wise word. I find #1 pretty easy to do but number 2 and 3 a little more challenging. You have encouraged me to look a little harder for that partner.

Reply
Jennifer link
2/22/2017 10:21:57 am

The second and third step can often be the most difficult, but in the end it will be so rewarding. I'm so glad you enjoyed the article!

Reply
Jill link
2/11/2017 05:14:09 am

Hi Jennifer-Your words ring so true. Life is better when we are not only accountable to God but also to others who will share in our wins, losses and everything in between. Great encouragement today! Thanks!

Reply
Jennifer link
2/22/2017 10:22:49 am

Life truly is better when it's shared, isn't it, Jill? Thanks so much for stopping by.

Reply
Lori Schumaker link
2/11/2017 10:14:26 pm

Jennifer,
You are so right! Accountability is so important in the pursuit of discipline! Love this!
Blessings and smiles,
Lori

Reply
Jennifer link
2/22/2017 10:24:07 am

Hey Lori, yes, it is the key. Having someone beside you makes everything so much better.

Reply



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  • Home
    • Ministry Resources for Women >
      • Beholding Him Freebie
    • Contributors
    • Statement of Faith
  • Blog
    • Ministry >
      • Evangelism {Win}
      • Discipleship {Build}
      • Living Missionally {Send}
    • God's Word >
      • Bible Study
      • Prayer
      • Devotionals
      • Bible Studies
      • Apologetics
    • Relationships >
      • Marriage
      • Singleness
      • Dating
      • Family
      • Friendship
    • World >
      • Social Justice Issues
      • Internet & Social Media
      • Politics
      • International
      • Science Revealing God
    • Life >
      • Image & Idenity
      • Health
      • Fashion
      • Food
      • Organization
  • Bible Study Resources
  • Prints
  • Stickers
  • Quiet Time Journals
  • Courses
    • Discover God's Calling
    • Women's Ministry Training Promo
    • How to Study the Bible
    • Women's Ministry Training Course
    • Growing in Your Faith Mini Course
  • Retreat
  • Video Bible Studies
    • Matthew
    • John
    • Galatians
    • Philippians
    • Know your Purpose
    • Creation Reveals
    • Ministry
    • Heart Growth
  • You Are Unshaken Book
    • Unshaken Groups
    • You Are Unshaken Paint Party
    • Unshaken Freebies
  • Shop